Total hip joint replacement, also called hip arthroplasty, is done by replacing the part of the thigh bone (femur) and the socket of the hip bone that together form the movable hip joint.

The surgery is performed to improve mobility and alleviate pain associated with the hip joint during routine activities.

Hip replacement is a common procedure and almost 300,000 Americans undergo hip replacement every year.

If considering an affordable hip replacement in India, the below information will be useful.

Hip Arthroplasty Procedure

The diseased or damaged bone and cartilage is replaced with prosthetic components made of metal, ceramic and/or plastic. Following are the steps:

The head of the femora is removed and the hollow center of the femur is fitted with a metal stem. It is then topped with a metallic ball to replicate the head of the bone.

The other part of the joint i.e. the damaged surface of the socket (acetabulum) is then removed and replaced with a metal socket

Smooth gliding of the two components, a spacer made of metal, plastic, or ceramic is inserted between the ball and the socket, thus completing the joint.

Cost of Hip Replacement in India

The package price of hip replacement in Delhi is $6,500 and up.

Life after Hip Replacement

You will certainly be able to move more freely and perform a lot of routine activities such as walking, sitting & standing, cycling, swimming, dancing, and playing golf after hip replacement.

However, highly strenuous activities like running are not advised. Below are the different stages of recovery after hip replacement:

Immediately after the surgery

A catheter may be attached to your bladder so you don’t have to walk to the toilet for urination.

Your leg will be placed in a certain position and supported with cushions

You will be given painkillers and some intra-venous antibiotics

Breathing exercises and slight movement of foot will be taught to aid in blood circulation

Week after the Surgery

Painkillers and blood thinners (to prevent clots) will be gradually lessened and then stopped on doctor’s advice.

You will be allowed to walk but without putting too much stress on the operated leg. Support of crutches, a walker, or a cane may be advised

Your surgeon will instruct you on diet, exercise, and medication according to your recovery speed

The help of a physiotherapist is recommended to improve mobility

After you go home

You may fly back home after a fortnight, although you will be allowed to do most activities (including sex) after about 6 weeks of the surgery. Get used to the postures and activities recommended by the surgeon for best outcome, and take your notes from the doctor.

Sleep only on your back

Have a cushion on your chair, and sit with your knees at a lower level than your hips

Avoid low chairs, and invest in a toilet seat raiser

Get a shower bench/chair, and have shower rails for safety

Continue physical exercises recommended by the surgeon

Remove any loose wires, flooring, carpets that can cause you to trip

Any soreness can be treated with a cold pack

Request a wheel chair at the airport and also, request the doctor for details regarding leg movement and care in your flight, especially for patients flying long distances as in from America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Hospitals to consider for hip replacement in India are listed on the right.